(Oct 2, 2011 12:02 AM)OneSadCookie Wrote: maybe once you're a famous designer, you don't need any other skills...

Until then, you need skills that will help you get a game made in the first place

Bottom line: if you can't program, you'd better be able to do art. There are other useful skills (music, audio, writing, ...) but at this level, the people who can do the "big two" skills are in charge.

I agree. Most designers nowadays are equipped with minimal scripting knowledge to help them prototype their game ideas. Although paper prototyping helps, the user experience of the game may not translate well to the digital mode.

Alternatively, you can start trying out level design and so some balancing on your own before you take on game design, as that involves the whole world.

Yes, that's what I meant. It's important everywhere, but you can't get anywhere with it alone. Design is something that needs to be mixed in with everything to various degrees, but isn't something that can standalone very well. Programming (what ever level, really...) and artistry (level design, modellers, concept artists, etc..) at least allow a person to get somewhere with the ideas and give a sense to other potential members of where the idea is to go. It's pretty common, I've seen, for multiple interpretations of one idea, so to have some demonstration of the concept in one of those ways helps. Others probably have better answers, though.

For level design, you can just start modding other games using the editors that ship with them. There are a lot games that use the Unreal Engine which you can use the SDK for to create new levels, rules, etc.

For 3d modeling, Blender is popular and free. Lots of resources for that, such as the Newb to Pro guide.

For 2D art you can start with concept art drawings on paper. Obviously there are a ton of 2d art programs.

You're young. Start now and learn a little of each skill at a time and by the time you're ready for a real job, you could be hired on the spot.